Binary Music has released LA-50, a new virtual instrument based on the classic Roland D-50 keyboard.

The upper and lower tones of each patch were sampled separately and their levels, pans and modulation can be adjusted independently. In total there are 100 instruments made from 2,486 samples – 2GB uncompressed.

The samples were recorded dry, then carefully matched reverb impulses were created using a Roland SRV3030. All samples were recorded in 24 bit at 44.1 kHz.

Released in 1987, the D50 was Roland’s answer to the Yamaha DX7. Although much easier to program, many of the presets found their way unedited straight onto hits during the late ’80s and early ’90s. Sounds such as Digital Native Dance, Soundtrack, Pizzagogo, Staccato Heaven and Fantasia, (all included in LA-50) became staples of many producers. The D50 features on albums by artists as diverse asMichael Jackson, Seal, 808 State, Duran Duran, Foreigner, Enya and Vangelis.

The D50 used a combination of PCM samples and a form of synthesis called Linear Arithmetic, which was actually quite analogue sounding. It was also the first synth to include an onboard digital reverb. On the D50 the reverb had to be switched off on a per patch basis, but on the rack mount D550 it could be switched off globally. By recording the tones dry, it’s possible to use a third party reverb instead of the included impulses.

“Success of a product strongly depends on how well the Product Design was elaborated before even starting to work on the first prototype. We help you by immediately turning your ideas into visual realistic sketches, like for example illustrated below.”

Alesis has introduced the new V Series and VI Series of full-size keyboard/pad controllers:

The new Alesis V Series (V61, V49, V25) combine velocity-sensitive keys with eight drum/trigger pads. Blue LEDs illuminate the pads, as well as the four assignable knobs and buttons. Assignments may be made quickly via the MIDI Learn feature. Octave shift keys provide access to the entire note range. A single USB cable provides both a power and data connection to nearly any computer.

The Alesis VI Series (VI61, VI49, VI25) add semi-weighted keys and aftertouch. The pad count has been increased to 16, with multi-color illumination. This layout provides intensive command over the clip trigger workflow of top DAW and compositional software. The internal clock offers drum roll, tempo, and sync capabilities. An optional power supply and a standard MIDI output allow for stand-alone use.

Dave Bryce checks out Roland’s first new workstation since the Fantom-G, the FA series.

Roland has announced two new workstation keyboards, the FA-08 and FA-06, which it says meet the needs of anyone who wants an instrument that they can use both on stage and in the studio.

Featuring a built-in audio interface, DAW integration, more than 2000 sounds from the Integra-7 sound module and an 88-note weighted action keyboard, the FA-08 weighs in at 16kg. It comes with a 16-track sequencer, and each of the 16 available parts can access its own effects engine, which sports 67 effect types. The UK price is £1529.

Full specs are below. The FA-06 boasts very similar specs but comes with a 61-note velocity-sensitive keyboard. It retails for £975. You can find out more about both models on the Roland website.

Featuring a huge selection of Roland’s best sounds, a 16-track sequencer, seamless DAW integration, an easy-to-use sampler, and much more, the new FA series completely reimagines the music workstation for effortless real-time power, ultra-fast workflow, and maximum versatility.

This a test to show the functionality of the Octave-Plateau VPK-5 Keyboard and the Voyetra 8 Synthesizer Module working.

We used a XLR cable as needed for the keyboard controller input. For audio output we used a dual mono TS to single TRS cable going through a mixer and amplifier. And also used the mono output through a powered monitor.

M-Audio’s top of the range MIDI controllers to replace the Axiom Pro. Quite a change in concept – see what we make of it.

About the Axiom Air 61 (marketing pitch):

Take command of your studio while achieving higher levels of musical expression with Axiom® AIR 61 from M-Audio®. Offering unprecedented control, Axiom® AIR 61 brings together unmatched ease-of-use plus empowering software to form the ultimate studio centerpiece. Stretch out and play your best on 61 semi-weighted piano-style keys—with aftertouch. The illuminated pads are velocity sensitive and even respond to pressure. Experience total hands-on control of your sessions using assignable LED lit buttons and rotary encoder knobs, long-throw faders, plus an array of dedicated transport and software navigation buttons. HyperControl® interactive controller mapping unites your hardware and software so you can start working faster. Completing this powerful package are two complementary software selections: Avid® Pro Tools® Express and Ignite by AIR music creation software. Together, they deliver a comprehensive path for transforming the ideas in your head into a finished piece of music.